Home » Misc » Room placement ideas

Room placement ideas


15 ways to make the most of your space |

(Image credit: Future)

Bedroom layout ideas are an essential part of any bedroom design. How your bedroom is arranged will have a huge impact on the functionality of your space so it's important to get it right.

Whether you're looking to create your own restful sanctuary or planning a space to accommodate guests, the key to a successful bedroom design is balancing practicality with style, and luckily there are plenty of ideas that marry the two.

To help get you inspired we've rounded up an array of bedroom ideas to help you lay out the perfect space along with some handy tips from the experts.

Bedroom layout ideas

Finding the right bedroom layout ideas can be a daunting task as there are an infinite number of ways to arrange a bedroom depending on the size, shape, and specific function of the room. Whether you're looking to create a large and luxurious master bedroom or small bedroom ideas, the best place to start when it comes to how to design a bedroom is to make a floor plan, say the experts.

'We typically start by collecting the dimensions of the bedroom to help us determine what we can fit into a space without it feeling crowded,' says Bria Hammel, creative director of Bria Hammel interiors . 

'We first take into consideration where the windows, door frame, and/or fireplace are located. This will help us determine the natural flow of the space. Next, we'll section off the space dividing it into bed/nightstand area, dresser/closet area, and lounge/sitting area.'

Once you have a clear floor plan it will make it easier to determine the flow of the space and where to position your furniture. 

1. Start with the position of the bed

(Image credit: Davide Lovatti)

When designing a bedroom layout the most important decision to make is where to position the bed – being the largest piece of furniture in the room it will have a big impact on how the space functions, looks, and feels. 

'When designing a bedroom, the bed always goes first and you design around it,' says Interior designer Esther Dormer . 'The most typical bedroom layout has the bed headboard facing you as you enter the room.' 

When positioned opposite a doorway a bed, 'can be a focal point that draws you into the room and gives you a sense of balance and symmetry,' adds Zac Houghton, CEO at Loftera . 'If a bed is placed in front of a window, it can block natural light and create a sense of imbalance.'

It's also important to think about the size of the wall the bed sits against and other architectural features in the room explains Bria Hammel, creative director of Bria Hammel interiors. 'In most of our bedroom designs, the bed is positioned on the main, longest wall with no obstruction. If a bedroom has a fireplace, we love to place the bed on the opposite wall and ensure that it's in alignment with the fireplace.'

2. Make the most of beautiful views 

(Image credit: Brent Darby)

There's nothing like waking up to a beautiful view to put you in a good frame of mind for the rest of the day, so if you're lucky enough to have a country bedroom with beautiful views then be sure to position the bed with a clear line of site to the window in order to make the most of them. Take care to create a bedroom layout where the furniture does not obscure or obstruct the window – and choose window treatments that can easily be pulled back.

3. Take a cue from the architecture

(Image credit: Colin Poole)

With so many bedroom layout ideas to choose from it can be hard to know where to start, but often there are clues in the architecture of the space. If you have a beautiful period home full of original features such as an exposed stone wall then why not set your bed against it as a way to really showcase it as part of your design?

4. Create a seating area

(Image credit: Amber Lewis)

If you have a large bedroom or are looking for main bedroom ideas then why not consider creating a relaxing seating area? 

Having an additional seating area alongside the sitting room offers an extra place to escape to at the end of the day, especially when you want some quiet time away from the bustle of the main household. If adding a seating area consider arranging it near a window where views can be enjoyed.

5. Add an ensuite

(Image credit: Humbert & Poyet)

Perhaps the ultimate in luxury bedroom ideas, an ensuite bathroom is the perfect addition to a restful sanctuary, allowing you to bathe, relax and unwind for bed in the privacy of a self-contained space. 

Reminiscent of boutique hotels, it's popular for an ensuite bathroom to be tucked behind a partition wall with a doorless entryway. When an ensuite is in the same line of site as a bedroom think about decorating the rooms with complementary materials and finished to help unite the space as demonstrated in this design by Humbert & Poyet . Designed in tandem, both spaces display dark wood warmed up with metallic detail.

(Image credit: Barlow and Barlow/Jonathan Bond )

Walk-in closet ideas are one of the best ways to maximize space in a bedroom layout. Dedicating a separate room to store clothes, shoes and bags will free up valuable floor space in a bedroom leaving the area feeling neat, tidy and clutter-free.

Fitting bespoke closets is a brilliant way to make the most of the height of the space. 'Fitted wardrobes are the perfect solution for individuals looking to store lots of clothing items, without dominating too much space in the bedroom. The big advantage of fitted wardrobes is of course that they can fill the space and cope with any idiosyncrasies', says senior designer at Neville Johnson , Simon Tcherniak.

‘We ask our clients to do a big clear out and count every piece in their wardrobes,’ says Irene Gunter of Gunter & Co . ‘We then have a great basis to work out what takes priority in your wardrobe – is it shelving, hanging space, or the shoe collection that are the key drivers?’

7. Make the most of awkward angles

(Image credit: Vanrenen GW Designs)

While they may boast characterful features like wooden roof beams, bedrooms with sloping ceilings such as loft conversions and attic bedrooms can make designing bedroom layout ideas particularly tricky. However, with some clever thinking these awkward spaces can make beautiful multifunctional bedrooms as demonstrated in this ingenious layout. 

In this beautiful guest bedroom idea, the interior designers at Vanrenen GW Designs have made the most of awkward alcoves by fitting them with bespoke closets as well as a luxurious roll top bath set behind a curtain to create a fun ensuite bathroom idea. 

8. Create a window seat

(Image credit: Douglas Gibb)

Whether used to curl up with a good book before bed or to enjoy aerial views of a garden, adding a window seat in a bedroom is a brilliant way to enhance a restful sanctuary. If created by a bespoke joiner, the seat can be fitted perfectly around the architecture but can also be designed with a chest underneath and a lift up lid in order for it to double as a bedroom storage idea.

9. Try a twin bedroom layout

(Image credit: Vanessa Arbuthnott)

Reminiscent of boutique hotels, twin bedroom ideas can serve multiple functions. If you often have visitors staying you may want to consider a twin bedroom as a flexible alternative to a traditional double guest room as it offers multiple sleeping options with the ability for two beds to be moved together for when couples stay. This type of layout can also work well for bedrooms for siblings or, as a single child's room that offers an extra bed – perfect for sleepovers. 

When it comes to twin bedroom layouts symmetry is a common theme. Opting for matching bed designs separated by a single nightstand will create visual harmony. If the twin bedroom is reserved for guests and not used regularly then you can afford to be a bit more experimental with interior design so why not create a talking point with matching upholstered headboard ideas?

10. Make space for a dressing area

(Image credit: Mary Wadsworth)

If space allows consider dedicating an area of your bedroom layout to a dressing area. No dressing room idea is complete without a large mirror and dressing table – for a chic, streamlined look consider fitting a table between built-in closets as done here in this design by Gunter & Co and be sure to include a stool for perching on while fixing hair or make up as well as a comfy chair to sit on while putting on shoes. Where possible it's a good idea to position a dressing table near to a natural light source.

11. Create a bed nook in a small bedroom

(Image credit: Thurston Design)

Where space is at a premium why not embrace the small proportions to create an intimate bed nook? A perfect small bedroom layout idea , fitting a bed into a tight corner and enclosing it with a curtain will create a cozy hideaway to shut yourself off from the world after a long day, plus makes a playful talking point in guest bedroom.

To enhance the cocooning atmosphere you could also introduce dark bedroom paint ideas as done here in this space by Thurstan . 

‘We would usually lean towards quieter palette combinations, but darker shades can work really well within smaller spaces,' says founder James Thurstan Waterworth. 'They create a perception of depth and lend a cozy, cocoon-like feel – welcome in every bedroom. For the walls, we suggest a deep midnight blue or a petrol green, then lift this by layering careful accents of color, perhaps a burnt orange or a similar earth-toned hue – ochre, terracotta or a softer peach. ’

12. Make space for a desk

(Image credit: Sims Hilditch)

If you don't have space for a home office then the bedroom can double as a work space during the day, but if you are thinking about a bedroom layout with a desk then be sure to consider where you position it.

'Most people want their bedroom to be a place to relax and unwind so if you are also using it as a workspace, try to position the desk away from the bed to create a separate space in the room,' says Sarit Marcus, professional interior designer and founder of Minted Space .  'I recommend putting the desk on a separate wall from the bed.'

'If a desk is to be incorporated, you might make sure it is placed near to natural light, ideally in front of a window,' adds Louise Wicksteed, design director at Sims Hilditch .

 

13. Zone your space

(Image credit: Future)

Do you use your main bedroom as a multifunctional space? Does it double up as a home office or maybe a space to do yoga? Perhaps you want to create a dressing room area? Zoning the space using a curtain or freestanding screen can be a quick way to define separate areas – of course this does depend on the size of the space and whether the shape lends itself to being divided. Choosing a sheer bedroom curtain idea is a brilliant way separate areas in a bedroom as it can help a sleeping area feel more intimate in the evening while keeping the overall space feeling bright and light throughout the day.

14. Use the principles of Feng Shui 

(Image credit: Future)

Symmetry is an interior design trick used to create tailored layouts – and it's perfect for the bedroom. In Feng Shui, pairs are thought to promote harmonious energy, so kit your Feng Shui bedroom layout for two people using these Feng Shui principles.

‘Symmetry provides balance within bedroom layouts and it often starts from the focal point, whether that be a statement bed, headboard, or piece of furniture,' says Liv Wallers from the British design studio, Yellow London . 'It brings a sense of comfort and rhythm to a space which is an integral part of the bedroom design process. It can be used right down to the smaller details of the room, pillows on the bed to lamps on a bedside table. ’

15. Make room for a work space

(Image credit: TG Studio)

If you have the room, a bedroom layout with a desk is a useful – but also practical – indulgence. This one is set within a fitted unit, placed conveniently under a window, and surrounded by mirrored fittings to add glamor and increase the light cast into the niche.  

Here, an upholstered chair is a wonderful choice for a modern bedroom layout because it gives you the opportunity to add more texture and pattern – plus, it creates a luxe look.

What is the best way to layout a bedroom?

The best way to lay out a bedroom will depend on many factors including the size, shape and purpose of the space – for example, a master bedroom will have different layout requirements to a guest bedroom or a child's bedroom. 'The layout will also depend on what storage requirements you need, but also whether the room needs  to fulfil any additional functions,' says Sarit Marcus, professional interior designer and founder of Minted Space .

'Will there be a sitting area? A desk? A musical instrument? Once you have determined the various uses for the bedroom, creating a balanced layout and determining the focal point are key elements to establishing a cohesive layout.'

While the type of the bedroom will determine the layout, there are some design principles that are common practice among many interior designers.

'A classic layout that we typically follow is to put your bed in the center of the most visible wall, and add two nightstands to either side if you have the space,' says Anna Franklin of Stone House Collective. 'I recommend putting the bed in the center of a main wall, and whenever possible, ensuring that it does not block any windows.'

Similarly, Bria Hammel explains that, 'in every bedroom design we create, the bed is positioned on the main, longest wall with no obstruction. If a bedroom has a fireplace, we love to place the bed on the opposite wall and ensure that it's in alignment with the fireplace.

Being restful, relaxing spaces, symmetrical layouts are a good choice as they bring harmony and balance.

How do you make a bedroom plan?

To make a bedroom plan the first step is to create a floor plan of your space which includes dimensions and the position of doorways, windows and any other architectural features like fireplaces and alcoves. 

'Using a piece of paper to sketch out a general floor plan of the space is a simple and easy way to visually plan a bedroom. Alternatively, if you have access to an online tool, this can help with accuracy of size and leftover space while playing around with the design,' says Anna Franklin of Stone House Collective .

One the floor plan is established this will give a clearer idea of where furniture is best placed.

'Play around with different layouts. Measure your largest pieces and tape it out in the bedroom so you can feel the amount of space you have for foot traffic rather than just seeing the dimensions on a piece of paper,' advises Sarit Marcus.

Pippa is Content Editor on Homes & Gardens online contributing to Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors print issues. A graduate of Art History and formerly Style Editor at Period Living, she is passionate about architecture, creating decorating content, interior styling and writing about craft and historic homes. She enjoys searching out beautiful images and the latest trends to share with the Homes & Gardens audience. A keen gardener, when she’s not writing you’ll find her growing flowers on her village allotment for styling projects.

10 Living Room Layouts Ideas — Genius Living Layouts

Style

Interior Design

Living Room

by Eleanor Büsing

updated Nov 8, 2022

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

SavePin It

See More Images

Our living rooms wear a lot of hats: we watch TV, entertain friends, have conversations and spend time reading in them. Sometimes they double as home offices, playrooms for kids, or even dining rooms, too. With all these considerations, it can be tricky to decide how best to arrange your living room, but thinking about the feeling you’d like the space to convey in combination with how you’ll spend time there is a solid way to start.

For more content like this follow

In order to show you 10 different living room layouts, I first had to come up with a versatile enough floor plan, one that incorporated a few problems/features we’d all recognize. Here, a long rectangular room has a central fireplace, windows to the front, and glass doors/garden access to the rear.

Watch

How to Fix 4 Common Furniture Mistakes

It’s a generous space, but not one without challenges. In each layout, I’ve tried to consider TV placement (because, let’s face it, most of us prioritize that in a living room), storage, traffic routes, and zoning the space with rugs and accessories.

Your own home may not have a living room that’s quite so versatile—it’s a sad truth that the smaller (or more oddly shaped) a room is, the fewer ways it can work as a space. My own L-shaped living/dining area only really works one way due to short walls, radiators, and an entire wall of windows. So think of these specific layouts as tailored to this space, but take inspiration on how you can re-think your own home in a multitude of ways.

SavePin It

See More Images

1. Formal and Balanced

This is probably the layout many of us think of when we consider a “formal” living room: two small sofas facing each other, a coffee table between them. Built-ins to either side of the fireplace provide storage, and a TV over the mantle can be easily viewed from either sofa.

SavePin It

See More Images

2. Casual and Balanced

Similar to the above, this is just a bit more relaxed. Two matching chairs offer a different seating option, and the TV moves to one side of the fireplace, as it’s more likely to be viewed from the sofa. I’ve also squeezed in a little writing desk for occasional work.

SavePin It

See More Images

3. Lots of Versatile Seating

Swinging the sofa lengthwise to the room allows for a slightly larger one, facing the TV directly. Two armchairs in opposite corners can be moved where needed, and a pouf-as-coffee table can become seating in a pinch, as well. This is definitely a living room to welcome your friends’ ’round for movie night.

SavePin It

See More Images

4. Minimal and Comfortable

When comfort and style are both paramount, pare down the furniture but select it carefully. A sectional sofa and armchair and footstool offer the only seating, but since they’re both such comfortable options, nobody will feel like they got the sad seat.

SavePin It

See More Images

5. Retro Party Pad

There’s something deeply chic about a ’70s-style sectional and matching chaise, don’t you think? Here, we lose the built-ins in favor of some freestanding mid-century media and storage units, just for a change. For added party points, I’ve added a bar cart in the corner and an oversize coffee table, perfect for all those party snacks.

SavePin It

See More Images

6. Work & Live Space

The nice thing about a sectional is that it can divide a space without really dividing it if you know what I mean. With the chaise situated in the center of the room, this space is essentially a small living room + office. The rug, only under the “living area,” further underlines this.

SavePin It

See More Images

7. Modern Country Casual

Many cozy conversation areas come to mind when I think of country-style design. A small table, paired with two cozy armchairs, allows for board games or reading, while two small sofas face each other for comfier conversations. The TV is placed centrally in some formal built-ins but is probably less important in this space.

SavePin It

See More Images

8.

Family Friendly

In this space, the sectional becomes a full-on L-shaped sofa, with arms and back all around. Extra seating is provided by a large pouf/ottoman, and the other half of the room is all play zone, with toy storage provided. I’ve even cleared the way for a child’s play table or toy kitchen.

SavePin It

See More Images

9. Separate Dining Zone

A lot of us have live-eat rooms, so here’s an option if that’s your situation. By placing the sofa in the center of the room with its back to the dining area, you create two separate spaces, and the rug also helps with this. The living area is small, true, but it looks out into the garden, and the TV is placed on a media unit nearby. In the dining area, I added shelving for books on each side, to make a sort of eat-in library.

SavePin It

See More Images

10. Integrated Dining Zone

This layout is similar to the above but more casual and spacious in feel. A sectional under the windows, a table by the doors, and a central TV that can be viewed from either space. I’ve kept the rug under the living area only, but this would work just as well with a large centralized one, provided you weren’t worried about food spills.

*Re-edited from a post first published 09.20.2017 -BM

tips for choosing style, decoration and furniture - INMYROOM

The living room in the house is the place where, as the name suggests, guests are received. However, the owners themselves relax here, spending time in front of the TV or a book, with drinks, pleasant conversation and other activities. Therefore, the living room should be the most comfortable place in your home.

If your family consists of several people, it is important to consider the interests of everyone. It is quite possible that for one of the family members, when designing the interior of a living room in an apartment, they will have to give space for working at a computer, doing creative work, even sports. All these points must be planned at the stage of designing the premises. nine0003

Determine the center of the living room

Living room design is inseparable from a competent layout. After looking at examples of photos of the living room in the apartment, you can see various space planning options. Of course, the choice depends on your preferences, as well as on the size and functionality of the room.

Place sofas and armchairs around the perimeter of the room in no case is worth it. Firstly, this is the last century, and the modern design of the living room categorically does not accept such a layout. In addition, you will clutter up the space with only recreational items, leaving no free space for other functional areas. nine0003

The best option for the interior of the living room is to highlight the central group, around which the rest of the furniture will be grouped. As a rule, a recreation area with a TV and a sofa is chosen as the center of the composition.

A fireplace can also be a central element, next to which chairs, rocking chairs or even luxurious skins for relaxation will comfortably fit.

Standard set of furniture for designing a living room in an apartment:

If the room is large, or it has to take on a diverse functional load, of course, you should not limit yourself to this. The living room may well have a desktop for a computer, chests of drawers and cabinets, a bar counter.

In order not to clutter up a cramped room too much, give preference to the transformer models that are popular today. Such furniture is very functional and allows you to perfectly save scarce space. nine0003

Choice of colors

If your living room is located on the sunny side, then you are practically unlimited in the choice of colors for finishing and furnishing it. The contrasting interior design of the living room will look very interesting. For example, walls and floors can be decorated in cold colors, while furniture, in contrast, in warm colors.

Many modern interior styles welcome the clean slate living room design. This technique involves decorating the walls and ceiling with plain white plaster or paint. And furniture and decor elements can be selected in a variety of colors: bright or rich dark - to create a spectacular and stylish interior, delicate and pastel - for a light, cozy and elegant design. nine0003

For north-facing living rooms with little to no daylight, choose warm-coloured finishes. Such an interior design of the living room compensates for the lack of sun, makes the room cozy and conducive to relaxation no matter what.

And, of course, if the room is a bit dark, you should take care of good artificial lighting. Well-placed spotlights are best suited to illuminate every corner of your living room.

Of course, the choice of colors for decorating a room should also depend on what visual and emotional effect you want to achieve. nine0003

If the living room is intended for stormy parties and active pastime, then it makes sense to decorate it in bright, saturated colors.

If the owners want to indulge in a calm and relaxing holiday, then the interior of the living room should be to match. In this case, you should give preference to soft light tones or, conversely, deep and calm, but in no case flashy.

Finishing materials

The choice of finishing materials should largely depend on the style in which you would like to maintain the design of the living room in the apartment. So, paper wallpapers with romantic flowers are definitely not suitable for laconic hi-tech or minimalism. And Provence or country-style interiors will not be combined with bright carpets with psychedelic prints and ultra-modern wall coverings with fur or leather texture. nine0003

In addition, the shape and size of the room is of great importance. Properly selected finishes will perfectly smooth out the flaws of the room and focus on its merits. While a thoughtlessly chosen design can spoil even a spacious and bright room.

Walls

The classic rule is that for small rooms it is better to choose light shades. It always works flawlessly. However, if this solution seems too boring for you, you can try all sorts of interesting wall designs. Spectacular examples of wall design in the living room, photos of which are presented in our article, will help you navigate and choose the most attractive options for yourself. nine0003

For example, even smooth, light-colored walls can be made a spectacular interior detail by adding bright or simply contrasting color accents to them. See such unusual living room interior ideas in the photo below.

All kinds of plasterboard niches look very stylish. They not only diversify the interior, but also become its very functional detail. After all, they can accommodate both decorative elements and items needed in the household. And if such a niche is beautifully illuminated from the inside, this will create an interesting effect of depth. nine0003

The traditional option for decorating the living room walls is wallpaper. Fortunately, today there is a great variety of them: both classic paper, and modern non-woven, and washable, and glass, and even innovative liquid wallpaper. If you are a lover of change, then you can pay attention to the wallpaper for painting. With such a finish, you can easily change the look of the room, at least several times a year. However, please note that, as a rule, such wallpapers are designed for a limited number of repaints. nine0003

Smoothly plastered or painted walls look great in modern interiors. At the same time, if you are a fan of the original design, you can pick up plaster with all sorts of beautiful and unusual textures. With its help, you can add a twist to your design and create a truly beautiful living room interior.

One of the fashion trends in modern design is the combination of materials. It is very important to use combinations of several finishes in one room: different types and shades of plaster, paint plus wallpaper, or even a combination of two types of wallpaper with different patterns and textures. See examples of such a living room design in the photo below. nine0003

Using this technique, you will not only be able to make your interior bright, stylish and original, but will also successfully cope with the zoning of the room. As you know, for proper zoning, it is not enough to collect several diverse groups of furniture in one room. So that all this does not look like a "hodgepodge", it is necessary to highlight each of the functional areas with its own design elements. And here, the design of wall sections in different colors and even different textures is the best fit. nine0003

Ceiling

When choosing the design of the ceiling in the living room, first of all, start from the size of the room. No matter how much you like spectacular multi-tiered structures, in a small room, packed full of necessary furniture, they will look simply ridiculous. In no case do not overload the design of the room.

If the room is small, then the best option is a simple ceiling in light colors with built-in ceiling lights. A good design move would be a small cornice around the perimeter, it will add a sense of depth. nine0003

Another interesting solution for visually increasing the space is the so-called "floating" suspended ceilings. This is a two-tier structure with a small height difference and built-in lights mounted inside the "upper" tier in such a way that they themselves are not visible. This technique creates soft diffused light and an interesting depth effect. As a result, the room seems visually higher and more spacious.

However, remember that the design tricks you have listed are inappropriate for small rooms with high ceilings. If in such a room you try to “distance” the ceiling even more due to visual techniques, then you will feel in it like at the bottom of a bottomless well. nine0003

In narrow rooms with high ceilings, it makes sense, on the contrary, to reduce the height - through visual means or with the help of suspended structures. Then the living room will immediately seem more comfortable and suitable for a comfortable stay.

If you are lucky and your living room is spacious and has high enough ceilings, then feel free to experiment with their design.

Here, multi-level suspended structures, both laconic and intricate forms, stucco, columns, scallops, and complex lighting systems can be used. nine0003

The main thing is not to overdo it and stick to the intended design of the room. If the room is decorated in a ceremonial classical style, in the spirit of Baroque or Empire, then without a doubt, both bas-reliefs and columns will be appropriate. But for more concise modern styles, you should choose a simpler and more rigorous ceiling design.

If your living room will have several functional areas, then the zoning can be "supported" with an appropriately designed ceiling. nine0003

For example, a central seating area with a sofa group and a TV set can be highlighted with a second tier of false ceiling. Depending on the general style of the room, both strict rectangular shapes and soft rounded lines may be appropriate.

The ceiling does not have to be white. Delicate, warm pastel shades will look perfect in almost any room.

Fans of more extravagant options can experiment with bright shades. It is not necessary to decorate the entire ceiling in saturated colors. However, if you highlight only part of it or one of the tiers with a spectacular shade, you will get a chic look. nine0003

As far as materials are concerned, it is best to avoid whitewashing and painting. After all, this will take a long time and carefully level the surface. An excellent modern solution is plasterboard suspended ceilings or stylish stretch models. They are quick to install, provide perfectly flat surfaces, and in addition, allow you to create a wide variety of design options.

Lighting

Just a few years ago, when choosing lighting, the issue was always decided in favor of a large ceiling chandelier. Of course, today there are many lovers of such lighting fixtures, including those decorated with numerous "crystal" pendants. However, you should not get hung up on this option, because modern manufacturers offer many interesting, stylish and comfortable options. nine0003

If you - due to adherence to traditions or in order to create a certain style of interior - have opted for a massive chandelier, you do not need to limit yourself to this. In any living room, additional sources of lighting will be appropriate: wall sconces, floor lamps and portable standing lamps.

Additional light sources perform several functions at once:

If you are a supporter of laconic design, then recessed ceiling lights are the best fit. They also allow you to create separate lighting in different functional areas of the living room. And besides, with their help you can always adjust the brightness and level of illumination of the room. And with all this, they remain almost invisible, do not overload the design and fit almost all interior styles. nine0003

It's safe to say that recessed ceiling lights are the best choice for a small room with low ceilings. But, at the same time, they will also be appropriate in a spacious hall.

Style Selection

Choose a style based on the tastes of the whole family. Look at photo examples of living room designs in a magazine, on the Internet, explore the various styles that are in abundance today.

Of course, the dimensions of the room must also be taken into account. In a small room in Khrushchev, a lush baroque or any other “palace” interior will look out of place. For small living rooms, it is best to choose a laconic design in the Scandinavian style, elegant classics or strict hi-tech or minimalism. Country and Provence are perfect, as these styles suggest comfort and emphatically home furnishings. nine0003

If your living room is large, then there is room to roam. In principle, a spacious room can be decorated in almost any style that you and your family like.

When choosing the style of the living room, be sure to take into account the features of the interior of the other rooms. Maintain style and harmony.

Classic

The classic style of the interior involves the use of the most natural materials. The whole environment should breathe quality and good taste. As part of this style, traditional furniture made of solid wood or at least high-quality MDF will be appropriate. nine0003

Classic interior colors are soft, calm, usually light. But in principle, within the framework of this style, almost any shades (except bright and flashy) will be appropriate if they are correctly beaten.

Elegant wallpaper, paintings, vases, traditional chandeliers, beautiful curtains - all this will be an excellent frame for an interior in a classic style.

Despite certain design rules, there are different directions for decorating a living room in the spirit of the classics. Within the framework of the classical style, several variations can exist at once:

Minimalism and high-tech

High-tech and constructivism can also be combined under this general direction. All these styles imply laconic finishes, emphatically simple and modern furniture models, built-in lighting, and an abundance of technology. nine0003

Minimalism is characterized by soft colors, calm combinations, stylish and simple shapes.

For hi-tech, for all their similarities, saturated tones, metallic luster and a lot of glass are more characteristic. High-tech furniture or decor can have very unusual, but at the same time laconic and streamlined shapes.

Minimalist interior of the living room is best suited for young and energetic people who keep up with the times, who do not attach much importance to luxurious surroundings, preferring simplicity and elegance of lines. nine0003

However, do not think that the interior in the style of hi-tech or minimalism is something from the category of "cheap and cheerful". Such a design may well turn out to be much more expensive than some magnificent Empire style.

Country and Provence

These styles are perfect for lovers of home comfort, antiquity and rustic simplicity. If you want to enjoy peace as much as possible, relax and forget about the bustle of the city, then these are excellent options for the living room.

At the same time, country is deliberately rough, emphatically rural, with simple, almost unfinished furniture and themed textiles. It is characterized by natural, natural shades: soft light and dark green tones, the whole range of brown, light yellow, ocher. Of the prints, a large cage, as well as various variations of floral patterns, will be especially harmonious. nine0003

The Provence style, as it should be for a true Frenchman, is more refined, distinguished by a special chic and charm. It is characterized by lighter shades of furniture and finishes: white, cream, pale blue, turquoise, beige. Decor and textiles can be very flirtatious: with ruffles, scallops, flounces, etc.

Today, these design trends are very popular not only in the design of country cottages, but also in the decoration of city apartments. Therefore, in stores you can easily find furniture, decor and finishing materials that perfectly match these styles. nine0003

Scandinavian

This style is incredibly popular right now. The secret of its success is in the harmonious combination of minimalism, comfort and homeliness. It involves a simple and concise finish, convenient and comfortable furniture of simple shapes, stylish, but at the same time soft and not defiant decor.

The Scandinavian style is characterized by calm shades: white, beige, light gray, gray-green, pale blue, dark blue. Often in the colors of such an interior there is a certain marine theme. nine0003

Living room interior in Scandinavian style is the perfect balance of functionality, convenience, modernity and home comfort. Stylish and modern upholstered furniture for the living room is perfect here, a photo of which you can see below.

Choosing furniture

Before you start choosing furniture for your living room, carefully consider which functional areas will be allocated in the room. Beautiful furniture for the living room, the photo of which can be seen below, is not all. It is important to correctly arrange it so that all the inhabitants and guests of the apartment feel cozy and comfortable. nine0003

If it is intended exclusively for families, then a comfortable sofa, armchairs, a TV stand and a couple of shelving will be enough. If space allows, you can add a coffee table, as well as small cabinets where you can place various decor items.

If you often arrange parties, like to receive and treat guests, then you will need a bar counter. It looks stylish, modern, spectacular, can serve as a place to store all kinds of items and will allow you to organize the serving of drinks and treats for guests in a very small area. In addition, the bar counter can be an excellent dividing element if you need to zone the living room. nine0003

Choose the dimensions of the sofa and the number of chairs depending on the number of family members and the possible number of guests. It makes no sense to choose an airfield sofa and three armchairs if you live alone and rarely receive guests. In this case, it is worth limiting yourself to more compact options and leaving more free space in the room - to create a feeling of spaciousness or to accommodate other functional elements.

If you expect your guests to occasionally stay overnight, then the choice of sofa should be approached especially carefully. Choose folding models, on which, if necessary, you can fully sleep. If there can be several overnight guests, then it makes sense to consider options for transforming chairs that can fold out and turn into a bed. nine0003

Modern design solutions, as a rule, do not involve the placement of solid cabinets in the hall. It is assumed that this tradition should remain in the Soviet past. However, if you don't have a walk-in closet and don't have enough space to place storage items in other rooms, no one can force you to give up a spacious closet in the living room.

In a classic interior, it can even be a solid wall. However, if you prefer more modern design trends, then it is better to pay attention to stylish wardrobes. For a small room, models with mirrored doors are perfect, they allow you to visually expand the space, and will not weigh down the interior as much as their counterparts with solid doors. nine0003

A small room should not be cluttered with a large number of pieces of furniture. Such an "abundant" environment will overwhelm, distract, and simply interfere with free movement around the room. If you don’t have a lot of things, then you definitely shouldn’t put a massive closet in the living room, limit yourself to a light and elegant rack. If you want to create a truly light and stylish design, pay special attention to the modern style living room furniture, the photo of which can be seen below.

If you do not plan to receive guests often, it makes no sense to purchase a grand dining table in the hall. In order to drink coffee or have a snack in front of the TV, an elegant coffee table will be quite enough. To save space, you can choose a functional transforming table, which will serve as both a stand and a storage for books and magazines, and, if necessary, can be expanded into a fairly full-fledged springboard for home meals. nine0003

Fireplace in the living room interior

If you want your living room to breathe genuine comfort and hospitality, consider purchasing a fireplace. Naturally, it is almost impossible to establish a real hearth in a city apartment. But today there are a lot of magnificent imitations on sale that will emphasize the elegance of the interior, create an atmosphere of comfort in the room and even be able to heat it.

An electric fireplace is perfect for an apartment. Do not think that this is a more beautiful analogue of the heater. In fact, modern manufacturers produce incredibly realistic models that amazingly imitate real flames. There are even models with sound and aroma accompaniment. That is, in front of you there will be not only the illusion of an open fire, but also real crackles, as well as the smells of burning logs. nine0003

Fireplaces are produced in a wide variety of styles: exquisite classic, ultra-modern laconic high-tech models, mysterious gothic, luxuriously decorated with gilding and marble in the rococo style, cozy stoves in the spirit of the country. In addition, fireplaces in the living room can vary in location: wall, corner, island.

Such a variety of models will allow you to choose exactly the option for your living room that fits perfectly into the layout and style of decoration. nine0003

Photo

See our gallery for 212 more amazing living room design ideas.

Irregular room design: How to fix an irregularly shaped kitchen, living room, bedroom interior

Unnecessary ledges and niches, oblique corners and rounded walls - what should the apartment owner do with all this

Ariana Ahmad Interior Design

So, you bought a new building in concrete: we chose an apartment with a round or polygonal living room, with an unusual window, etc. And we decided that this would be a "trick" of your interior. And now you can’t find suitable furniture - whatever one may say, it still doesn’t come out very well. nine0003

Mainly because the irregular shape is due to the configuration of the bay window or the bevel of one of the corners of the load-bearing wall. The question arises: how to live in it?

► This is archival material. First published in 2017 and updated in 2020

Natalya Shirokorad

What is wrong with the irregular shape
1. It is always a loss of precious meters. It seems that you paid for them, but you can’t really use them.

2. An asymmetrical room means difficulties in finding furniture. Arranging standard furniture in such a room is problematic. If the room is irregular in shape and not very large (within 20 sq.m), any voluminous object with right angles will emphasize its irregular configuration.

Guseva Natalia Valerievna

3. The design of an irregularly shaped room is always a choice "of the lesser evils". If there are almost no right angles in the room, then the overall furniture can only be placed in the center along one of the walls (for example, a bed in the bedroom or a sofa in the living room). This greatly limits the choice of ergonomic planning solutions. nine0003

4. You will have to order furniture of individual parameters, but it costs at least 30 percent more than the standard one.

Olga Arapova

5. It is a difficult task to come up with an ergonomic layout in a complex-shaped apartment on your own. It is reasonable to entrust it to the designer and order a professional project. Consider this expense item if you are only considering buying an irregularly shaped apartment.

————————————
YOUR CITY…
► Houzz can hire a designer or architect in any city or country. Start looking for a specialist
————————————

Yuliya Rodionova

Fact : some irregularities are not a shortcoming, but, on the contrary, a finding of the premises. Agree, you could fall in love with an apartment and buy it, for example, because of the floor-to-ceiling windows in the bay window area. When irregularity is desirable and you know how to work with it (you have a couple of planning decisions in your head for such a situation), there are no problems. In this article, we will deal more with unwanted irregularities and fix them. nine0003

more photo ...
► See examples from implemented projects - another 2300+ photo bay windows

Maria Demidova

"Part the layout of the apartment
carefully study its layout. At first glance, it may seem that there is no problem at all. On the plan, the details are usually not visible to a non-specialist. But then the discomfort in the new bedroom with rounded walls, in the living room with oblique corners and in the small kitchen, half of which is occupied by a ventilation shaft, will become acutely noticeable only after buying an apartment, repairing and moving. nine0003

Ekaterina Perminova

Study the layout on the developer's website in terms of practicality.

What to check: rounded walls, obtuse and sharp corners, niches and ledges, non-standard openings, room configuration that differs from the usual rectangle.

Agence hivoa

Pay attention to the "whiskers"
Whiskers are called additional protruding corners (straight lines), which turned out due to pylons or ventilation ducts. nine0003

Mustaches, as a rule, break the symmetry of the room. They will have to be beaten, which will greatly complicate the search for the right planning solution. If they are not used in any way, they will certainly create a feeling of discomfort. In addition, the joints of materials on the cuts often turn out to be sloppy, and the wear of materials is greater than on even planes or on internal corners.

UD BÀSE

In the photo: pay attention - the protruding pylon with a technical hatch and the outlets above the line of the kitchen set were hidden with the help of color. All eyes on him

Irina Krasheninnikova

Do not give in to the developer's persuasion
It's one thing when you come up with an unexpected layout, and the design of an irregularly shaped trapezium room is a conscious step (as in the example in the photo). And completely different - the assurances of the developer that "the asymmetric composition of the room is a feature." And apartments with bevelled corners are not at all cheaper than the same ones, but with straight ones. Do not confuse architectural flaws, which will then have to be corrected for a long time and costly, with the advantages of an unusual apartment. nine0003

Special-style

Important: We studied the layouts - ask for details. How are the communications going? Where are the technical nodes located? Anything that changes the standard dimensions or configuration of the premises will necessarily lead to more complex architectural solutions and higher repair costs. Think especially well about how you see the future design of an irregularly shaped room.

Natalia Spivak and Nadezhda Bortsova

1. Reshape the space
It's better to have a crooked corridor than to try to arrange the furniture in the bedroom "with a twist." You can reshape the interior space by moving, mounting / dismantling, and even building walls.

Irregularities are straightened due to transition zones: rooms become more regular, and a corridor, a hall or a dressing room take on an uncomfortable shape (as in the previous photo).

ST-buro Interior design studio

On the photo: kitchen design of irregular shape. The kitchen was combined with the living room, and the broken configuration of the space works for the visual extension
2. Combine rooms
Another constructive way is to combine rooms. The larger the room in the end, the less obvious will be the imperfection of its shape. Uneven walls in a spacious room attract attention differently than in a small one. It is better to think over space zoning in such a way as to “tear off” the furniture from the walls and group it according to functional areas.

iPozdnyakov Studio

3. Where possible, try to smooth corners
Mustaches can be smoothed out using chamfers or furniture fillets. “Extra” walls and irregular shapes, of course, will remain, but a neat decor will reduce the degree of tension, the aggressiveness of the inner corner will go away.

Oleg Klodt Architecture & Design

4. Create an island of symmetry
If there is no way to “move” the walls, the strategic placement of furniture can hide the problem. For example, how to equip an irregularly shaped bedroom? Create an "island of symmetry" around the main piece of furniture. At the same time, it is desirable to make other objects in pairs, as in the example in the photo: you hardly noticed the bevel near the door. nine0003

propertylab+art

5. Switch your attention
The main point of attraction can be both the largest object and the most interesting one. It may not be furniture at all, but an object of art, a musical instrument or an architectural element, such as a window or a niche. An unusual stained-glass window in the project in the photo draws attention to itself.

6. Organize built-in storage
This tip applies especially to irregularly shaped bathrooms. It will be correct to fit a built-in wardrobe or a washing machine into a niche. The organization of a built-in storage system or a "technical corner" is another way to visually level the space. nine0003

MORE PHOTOS…
245 more photo ideas for designing a niche in the bathroom

Dmitrii Tsyrenshchikov

The design of round rooms is especially difficult in terms of configuration. Standard furniture will not fit into a radius or triangular room along the walls: most often you will have to make furniture to order. nine0003

Elena Babushkina

In the photo: the design of the room with a round wall - the countertop in the nursery is made to order room sizes. Have you taken into account the thickness of the walls, the rise of the floor and the height of the room after finishing? If not, the item ordered “to measure” may simply not be included.

DREAMHOUSE decorations

8. Create additional axes of symmetry
Beveling one corner creates additional dynamics. Some items need to be oriented towards it. This technique works well with a sufficient length of the beveled wall.

9. Make it even more complicated
Not everyone likes strict and prim symmetry in the interior. Irregularities can become a reason for the game and for a more frivolous, "spontaneous" attitude to space. It will help to create additional axes with the help of the correct placement of furniture and decor, visual lowering of the ceiling or raising the floor. nine0003

10. Create optical illusions
Color and geometric pattern will help make the shape of the room more harmonious. Close shades will smooth corners, visually remove shadows; bright ornaments will divert attention from problem areas and focus it on decorative elements. A great example in the photo: an irregularly shaped entrance hall in a St. Petersburg apartment.

ANNAmorphs.

11. Break the mold
It is easy to distort what is already distorted. Use lines that go from one surface to another. Or arrange the mirrors so that the illusion of a continuation of the space is created. nine0003

Korneev Design Workshop

12. Paint the walls and ceiling in the same tone
Roughness of the wall in the attic cannot be corrected constructively. In this case, the best strategy is to combine surfaces that form an unpleasant angle with the help of color or ornament.

TS Design | Taras Bezrukov and Stas Samkovich

13. Wrap up the room with textiles
Asymmetric walls with windows are the easiest to fix. Run curtains all over the wall, as you did in this irregularly shaped living room. nine0003

MORE PHOTOS…
134 more photos of full wall curtains

aminteriors

There are enough solutions to fix a bad layout.

Learn more